A pair of fine sculpted Carrara marble models of recumbent lions

A pair of fine sculpted Carrara marble models of recumbent lions, 19th century, after Antonio Canova (Venetian, 1757 ~ 1822), each portrayed with forepaw resting above the other, on integrally carved rectangular socles, 41cm high, 72cm wide, 31cm deepBidders from the UK and outside of the European Union should be aware that additional import charges may applyOn his death in 1769 Pope Clement XIII was laid to rest in the Vatican, but Senator Abbondio Rezzonico (the nephew of the late pontiff) commissioned Canova to create a more fitting tomb for him in St Peter's. The work which includes Canova's lions in marble was completed in 1792, when the late pope's remains were removed to the new tombPlease note the tall display pedestals showing are not included with this lotCondition Report: Marks, knocks, scratches, abrasions consistent with age and use, some old chips and losses to some areas such as the extremities (such as the ears) and around the plinthsThese appear to have been cleaned overall but there are some areas of discolouration and signs of weathering, as well as some surface deposits and lichen these are mainly (but not exclusively) to the deeper recesses.Please refer to additional images for visual reference to conditionCondition Report Disclaimer